Japan

A journey into Okinawa

For Ryukyu castles, mangrove forests, and coral lagoons
japan

A Journey into Okinawa

Okinawa – Japan’s southernmost prefecture – is the ultimate tropical paradise. With 160 islands (and its historic status as the independent Ryukyu Kingdom), Okinawa offers an unexpectedly care-free take on the land of the rising sun.

On this vibey and vibrant journey, we’ll take you to not one, but two Okinawan islands. Weaving your way southwest from Okinawa Main Island to the diving mecca of Miyako, you’ll explore these subtropical “worlds”. Along the way, you’ll be led by some of Okinawa’s warmest and most knowledgeable guides. Let’s dive in.

When

July - April

Price

From $10,675pp excl. flights
(based on 2 ppl sharing)

How long

6 nights
Ideal length
Super Itin Map - Okinawa Mob (2)
Days 1-3

Okinawa Main Island

Stretching 100 kilometres north to south, Okinawa Main Island – the trading capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom from 1429 to 1879 – has a deliciously warm climate all year round. Welcome to the largest (and most populous) island in the Okinawa prefecture, and the historic home of “gusuku” (or Ryukyu castles), tsuboya pottery with its unique overglaze enamels, and karate.

beef in okinawa in japan
okinawa vegetable in japan
awamori drink in okinawa in japan
Day 1
A taste of island life

Touching down in Okinawa’s Naha Airport, you’ll be met by your private driver. They’ll take you to Hoshinoya Okinawa, your coastal retreat. Okinawa is famed for its people’s healthy lifestyle and cuisine. So, today, your expert guide will take you to the local market, where you’ll barter for the freshest Okinawan ingredients before preparing (and tasting) traditional island dishes like goya champuru (melon stir-fry). In the evening, you’ll dine on Okinawan delicacies and take your first sips of awamori (the Okinawan version of sake) in a private tasting experience led by a local chef.

okinawa blue cave in japan
clownfish on zamami island in okinawa in japan
Spa - HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island
Day 2
The call of the sea

Rising early, you’ll head to the “Blue Cave” for a snorkelling adventure; weaving your way through strikingly blue waters and swimming alongside tropical fish. Returning to your Hoshinoya Okinawa, you’ll spend the rest of the day unwinding at your hotel; meditating to the sound of lapping waves, soaking up the sun by the pool, or indulging with a soothing massage at the hotel’s spa. Or all three.

yanbaru forest in okinawa in japan
Day 3
Of mangrove forests and Bingata kimonos

This morning, you’ll head north to the mangrove forests of Yanbaru. With one of our expert guides, you’ll kayak along the tranquil Kesaji River; paddling between dense mangroves and limestone mountains. As the sun begins to set, you’ll dine on Okinawan delicacies before enjoying a private performance of Ryukyu dance and music. Listening to the rhythmic sounds of instruments crafted from bamboo, you’ll watch as dancers tell stories of rural life through comical expressions, vibrant costumes, and movements inspired by karate forms.

Super Itin Map - Okinawa Mob-1
Days 4-7

Miyako Island

Flanked by the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea, Miyako Island (the largest of the six Miyako Islands) is a diving mecca. Home to coral gardens, sea turtles, and underwater caves like the “Pumpkin Hole” (so-called for its unusual pumpkin-shaped rock formations), it’s the perfect place to explore both above and beneath the surface.

karate uniform on tatami mat in okinawa in japan
miyako island okinawa in japan
Day 4
Another day, another island

Okinawa is the birthplace of karate, so this morning you’ll learn the secrets of the islands’ traditional style, Uechi-ryu; mastering form and practicing centuries-old techniques. Saying goodbye to Okinawa Main Island, you’ll fly to Miyako Island, where you’ll rest your head at your stylish hotel: Rosewood Miyakojima.

ryukyu pottery in okinawa in japan
paddleboarding at sunset in miyako island in okinawa in japani
Day 5
It’s an art

Today, you’ll try your hand at Ryukyu glass blowing; learning traditional “free blowing” techniques and crafting your very own glass or vase. Just before sunset, you’ll take to the sea. Gliding over the island’s famed “Miyako Blue” waters, you’ll paddle to your heart’s content as you watch the sun sink below the horizon.

spa ritual in okinawa in japan
coral reef in miyako island in okinawa in japan
Day 6
Reflect, relax, repeat

On your penultimate day, you’ll spend your time relaxing at Miyakojima’s Asaya Spa. As you enjoy soothing spa treatments inspired by traditional Okinawan ingredients and rituals, you’ll let your worries drift away as you look out at striking views of the coral reefs and sugarcane fields beyond.

yacht by okinawa main island in japan
Day 7
Until next time

By the end of your trip, you’ll have explored two of Okinawa’s 160 islands. If you’re looking for a reason to return, we can give you 158. Just say the word.

So, ready to start?

Start Planning